rvsfan

I am using 3 layers of flannel, 6 in squares unfinished. Is this right, if I cut all squares 6 in, with 1/2 in seams and do not sew a X on each one, quilt will stay together? What do I do at the corners? Thank you for your support.

tallchick

You can use whatever size block you want , if you're using 1/2 in seam allowance you will have a 4 inch finished block. It's always best to sew a X in the block to stabilize it IMHO, others may have a different opinion. What do you mean corners? Are you speaking of the outside edges? You will clip all the edges to get the rag effect. Can't wait to see your finished project!!!

dunster

Your finished block with 1/2" seams will be 5" (1/2" lost on each side). I never sew the X in the blocks. Since all 3 layers are caught in the seams there is no problem with them staying together. (Where would they go?) The purpose of the X is if you're using a smaller inside filling, which doesn't get caught in the seams and therefore can bunch up. Someone said that she had a problem with the bulk at the corners, and with one of the layers shifting while she was sewing, but she was using two layers of flannel and one of a more slippery, thicker fabric. I don't think you will have any problems with 3 layers of flannel. When you're done with the sewing you clip all the seam allowances, including into the corners. Be sure to show your quilt when done, looking forward to seeing it.

cjsews

I think what you are asking is about the outside corners. When the quilt is together stitch around the entire quilt twice. I stitch my edge 1/4 inch apart. Clip to there most outside seam to fray. The second inner seam gives it extra strength from pulling apart

tessagin

Lots of videos on rag quilts; just Google.

quiltingbuddy

Good information. I've never done one either YET but I want to. Now I know what to do/not to do and why. Thanks!

MadQuilter

I just did one using 8 1/2" starting squares and 5/8" seam allowance.

If you don't sew the x across then all 3 layers will have a chance to bunch up. Not sure what the smaller size would feel like. I can recommend using nothing smaller than a 1/2" seam allowance because you need to trim each seam and that is difficult when the seam gets too small. When sewing the rows together, make sure to open the seams so you have the seam bulk distributed. Don't forget to sew one seam all around the outer edge. Not sure what you mean about the corners. I just sewed edge to edge in all directions.

BTW: I didn't want all that fuzz in the washer so I used a chenille brush to brush the seams first. I spritzed them with a little water and just kept brushing. Unbelievable how much thread came off.

Here is what the final result looks like.

ManiacQuilter2

If you are using a 1/2" seam allowance, subtract 1/2" plus another 1/2" and you have a 5" finished square. The stitching the "X" just keeps the three layers together. Here is a recent post. This quilter used decorative stitching instead:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...s-t272613.html

Material Witness

And I can tell you, that quilt will be HEAVY. Experience.